🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Impreza Year: 1999 Product Type: Repair Service Manual Product Format: PDF Download 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Car (C-Segment) Usp: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) as standard across most trims, rally-bred heritage. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors 1999: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra Key Features Distinctive Features Vehicle: Standard AWD, Boxer Engine, Practicality, Durable Construction. Manual Utility: Essential for maintaining the unique AWD system and Subaru boxer engine's specific needs. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Target Audience: Professional Technicians and Experienced DIYers Language: English Geographic Applicability: Global (primarily North American specifications implied) Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) Format Digital Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (AWD System) Chassis: Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front Disc, Rear Disc/Drum), Wheels & Tires Body And Electrical: Body Structure, Exterior Components, Interior Trim, HVAC System, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Level Checks, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement Repair And Overhaul: Engine Reassembly, Transmission Overhaul, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Bushing Replacement, Steering Rack Repair Diagnostics And Troubleshooting: Fault Code Diagnosis, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Component Testing Procedures Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to major component overhauls and diagnostics. Diagnostic Coverage: Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, Ohm readings, voltage specifications, and component resistance checks. Special Tools: Lists required special tools for specific repair procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Text-searchable PDF for easy navigation Print Quality Resolution: High-resolution scans of original factory documents Binding Type Digital Binding: N/A (Digital File) Paper Type Digital Paper Simulation: Simulates factory paper quality with clear diagrams and text Completeness Scope: Factory-level detail covering all major systems, including engine management, transmission rebuilds, and detailed wiring diagrams. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: EJ22 Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (Horizontally Opposed) Displacement: 2.2 Liters (2212 cc) Bore X Stroke: 96.0 mm x 75.0 mm Compression Ratio: 9.5:1 Valvetrain: SOHC (Single Overhead Cam), 16 Valves (4 per cylinder) Performance Horsepower Net: 135 hp @ 5,500 rpm Torque Net: 140 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Recommended Fuel: 87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline Engine Notes Timing Belt Replacement Interval: 60,000 miles or 5 years (whichever comes first) Timing Belt Component Kit Pn: Subaru genuine or equivalent recommended (e.g., Gates, Continental) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type Standard: 5-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Type Optional: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with Lock-up Torque Converter) Features AWD System Type: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Permanent) Manual Transmission Fluid Spec: API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Hypoid Gear Oil Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec: Dexron III or equivalent Transfer Case Fluid Spec: API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Hypoid Gear Oil Rear Differential Fluid Spec: API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Hypoid Gear Oil 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 168.7 inches (4285 mm) Width: Approx. 66.1 inches (1679 mm) Height: Approx. 55.1 inches (1400 mm) Wheelbase: Approx. 98.4 inches (2500 mm) Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5x100mm Tire Size Standard: 185/70R14 or 195/60R15 (trim dependent) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2700-2900 lbs (1225-1315 kg) (depending on trim/transmission) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Likely 4-star (based on contemporary vehicles, manual may have specific data) IIHS Side Impact: Acceptable/Good (typical for the era, check manual for specifics) Active Features ABS: Optional on some trims, standard on higher trims Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Front Passenger Airbags Seatbelts: 3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM Cassette Player with optional CD player. 4-speaker or 6-speaker systems. Display: Basic digital clock display and radio tuner. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on higher trims, optional on others. Stability Control: Not available for the 1999 model year. Connectivity Phone Integration: No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Engine Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection. Cabin Air Filter Replacement: Not standard on all trims for this year; if equipped, every 15,000 miles. Brake Fluid Flush: Every 24-36 months or 30,000 miles. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Capacity: 4.7 US Quarts (4.4 Liters) with filter change Engine Oil Viscosity: 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30, API SG/SH or higher Coolant Type: Subaru Genuine Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol based, long-life) Power Steering Fluid: Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or ATF Dexron II/III Known Issues Head Gaskets: While the EJ22 is generally more robust than later EJ variants, head gasket leaks can occur, particularly on higher mileage examples. The manual details inspection and replacement procedures. Timing Belt: Critical component. Failure can lead to catastrophic engine damage due to interference design. Strict adherence to replacement intervals is paramount. Rust...
Approx. 2700-2900 lbs (1225-1315 kg) (depending on trim/transmission)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
Likely 4-star (based on contemporary vehicles, manual may have specific data)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable/Good (typical for the era, check manual for specifics)
Active Features
ABS:
Optional on some trims, standard on higher trims
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Front Passenger Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM Cassette Player with optional CD player. 4-speaker or 6-speaker systems.
Display:
Basic digital clock display and radio tuner.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on higher trims, optional on others.
Stability Control:
Not available for the 1999 model year.
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Not standard on all trims for this year; if equipped, every 15,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24-36 months or 30,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.7 US Quarts (4.4 Liters) with filter change
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30, API SG/SH or higher
Coolant Type:
Subaru Genuine Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol based, long-life)
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or ATF Dexron II/III
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While the EJ22 is generally more robust than later EJ variants, head gasket leaks can occur, particularly on higher mileage examples. The manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Timing Belt:
Critical component. Failure can lead to catastrophic engine damage due to interference design. Strict adherence to replacement intervals is paramount.
Rust And Corrosion:
Common in certain climates, particularly around wheel wells, rocker panels, and suspension components. Manual offers body repair guidance.
Ignition System:
Spark plug wires, coil packs, and ignition control modules can fail over time. The manual provides diagnostic steps for ignition system faults.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Foundation:
Founded in 1953 as Fuji Heavy Industries, focused on aerospace and automotive.
Model Evolution
First Generation Impreza:
Launched in 1992, replacing the Subaru Leone. Known for its rally success.
Second Generation Impreza Gc8 Gf8:
This 1999 model is part of the first generation (GC/GF/GM chassis codes). Characterized by iconic styling and AWD prowess.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily Gunma Prefecture)
Production Years First Gen:
1992-2001
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Rally Heritage:
The Impreza platform (especially WRX/STI variants not covered in detail here) is highly acclaimed for its World Rally Championship success, contributing to the model's performance image.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied for this generation; manual provides insights into common maintenance items that contribute to long-term reliability.